Height adjustment bracket for roof applications

ABSTRACT

A roof mount system supports a solar panel above a roof and includes a base positioned on the roof and a first fastener connected to the base and extending away from the roof and moveable along the base in a direction generally parallel to the roof. A first clamp supports a bottom surface of a solar panel frame and adjusts the height of the solar panel above the roof by moving the first clamp along a first fastener in a direction perpendicular to the roof. A second clamp is connected to a second fastener and moves with respect to the first clamp perpendicular to the roof. The solar panel is clamped between the first clamp and the second clamp portion. A protrusion extends from the first or second clamp to form an electrical bond between the solar panel frame and the respective first or second clamp.

CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 17/166,572 filed on Feb. 3, 2021, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/122,817 filed on Dec. 15, 2020 andissued as 11,374,531, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/836,636 filed on Mar. 31, 2020 and issued as 10,897,223,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/022,691filed on Jun. 29, 2018 and issued as 10,644,643, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/236,175, filed on Aug. 12, 2016issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,014,818, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/928,235, filed on Oct. 30, 2015 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,431,953, which claims the benefit of and priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/238,517, filed Oct. 7, 2015,and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/134,205, filed Mar.17, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/131,480,filed Mar. 11, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/106,410, filed Jan. 22, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/106,406, filed Jan. 22, 2015, and to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/106,282, filed Jan. 22, 2015, and to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/073,867, filed Oct. 31, 2014, theentire contents of each are hereby incorporated by reference herein intheir entirety for any purpose.

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 17/166,572 filed on Feb. 3, 2021, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/122,817 filed on Dec. 15, 2020 andissued as 11,374,531, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/836,636 filed on Mar. 31, 2020 and issued as 10,897,223,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/022,691filed on Jun. 29, 2018 and issued as 10,644,643, which is a continuationin part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/990,752, filed on May 28,2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,476,425, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/680,226, filed on Apr. 7, 2015issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,985,575, which claims the benefit of andpriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/134,205, filedMar. 17, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/131,480, filed Mar. 11, 2015, and to U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/106,410, filed Jan. 22, 2015, and to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/106,406, filed Jan. 22, 2015, and to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/106,282, filed Jan. 22, 2015, andto U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/073,867, filed Oct. 31,2014, and to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/976,448, filedApr. 7, 2014 the entire contents of each are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entirety for any purpose.

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a roof mount system for mounting atleast one object above a roof surface.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, the invention provides a roof mount system thatsupports a solar panel above a roof. The roof mount system includes abase positioned on the roof and a first fastener connected to the baseand extending away from the roof. The first fastener moves along thebase in a direction generally parallel to the roof. A first clampportion is connected to the first fastener and moves with respect to thebase in a direction perpendicular to the roof. The first clamp includesa first surface that supports a bottom surface of a solar panel frame sothat the height of the solar panel above the roof is adjusted by movingthe first clamp portion along the first fastener in a directionperpendicular to the roof. A second fastener is connected to the firstclamp portion and extends in the perpendicular direction away from theroof. The second clamp portion is connected to the second fastener andmoves with respect to the first clamp portion in the perpendiculardirection. The second clamp includes a second surface to contact a topsurface of the solar panel frame. The solar panel is secured against thefirst clamp portion by moving the second clamp portion toward the firstclamp portion along the second fastener toward the roof.

In some embodiments, the invention provides a roof mount system thatsupports a solar panel above a roof. The roof mount system includes abase positioned on the roof and a first fastener connected to the baseand extending away from the roof. The first fastener moves along thebase in a direction generally parallel to the roof. A first clampportion is connected to the first fastener and moves with respect to thebase in a direction perpendicular to the roof. The first clamp includesa first surface that supports a bottom surface of a solar panel frame sothat the height of the solar panel above the roof is adjusted by movingthe first clamp portion along the first fastener in a directionperpendicular to the roof. A second fastener is connected to the firstclamp portion and extends in the perpendicular direction away from theroof. The second clamp portion is connected to the second fastener andmoves with respect to the first clamp portion in the perpendiculardirection. The second clamp includes a second surface to contact a topsurface of the solar panel frame. The solar panel is secured against thefirst clamp portion by moving the second clamp portion toward the firstclamp portion along the second fastener toward the roof. A protrusionextends from one of the first and second clamp portions. The protrusionforms an electrical bond between the solar panel frame and therespective one of the first and second clamp portions.

In some embodiments, the invention provides a method of supporting asolar panel above a roof surface. The method includes positioning a baseon the roof surface, extending a first fastener upward from the baseaway from the roof surface, moving the first fastener along the base ina direction substantially parallel to the roof surface and positioning afirst clamp portion on the first fastener at a first distance from theroof surface. The method further includes extending a second fastenerupward from the base away from the roof surface, positioning a secondclamp portion on the second fastener at a second distance from the roofsurface and positioning a solar panel on the first clamp portion of theroof mounted bracket. The method further includes adjusting the firstdistance to adjust the height of the solar panel off of the roofsurface, clamping the solar panel between the first clamp portion andthe second clamp portion by decreasing the second distance andelectrically bonding the solar panel and at least one of the first clampportion and the second clamp portion.

Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration ofthe detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a plurality of solar panels coupled to a roof by aplurality of mounting brackets according to some embodiments of theinvention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1 with some of the solarpanels removed.

FIG. 3 illustrates a mounting bracket according to some embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a perspective cross sectional view of the mounting brackettaken along line A-A of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 6 is a right side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 7 is a side cross sectional view of the mounting bracket takenalong line A-A of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 8 is another perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 3 coupledto a solar panel.

FIG. 10 is a side view of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 illustrates a mounting bracket according to some embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG.11 .

FIG. 13 is a perspective cross sectional view of the mounting brackettaken along line B-B of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 14 is a front view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 15 is a right side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 16 is a side cross sectional view of the mounting bracket takenalong line B-B of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 11 coupledto a solar panel.

FIG. 18 is a side view of FIG. 17 .

FIG. 19 illustrates a mounting bracket according to some embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 20 is a partially exploded view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 is a front view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 23 illustrates a mounting bracket according to some embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 23 .

FIG. 25 is a front view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 23 .

FIG. 26 is a cross sectional view of the mounting bracket taken alongline C-C of FIG. 23 .

FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG.23 .

FIG. 28 illustrates a mounting bracket according to some embodiments ofthe invention.

FIG. 29 is a front view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 30 is a right side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 31 is a cross sectional view of the mounting bracket taken alongline D-D of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 32 is an exploded view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 33 is a side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 with first andsecond solar panels mounted thereto.

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 with asolar panel mounted thereto.

FIG. 35 is a right side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 with asolar panel and a skirt mounted thereto.

FIG. 36 is a partially exploded perspective view of FIG. 35 .

FIG. 37 is a side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 includingcushions that are positioned to contact solar panels.

FIG. 38 is a side view of FIG. 37 with a solar panel supported on someof the cushions.

FIG. 39 is a side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 28 with a cushionpositioned between the mounting bracket and the solar panel.

FIG. 40 is an exploded view of a mounting bracket according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is an exploded view of a mounting bracket according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 42 illustrates a skirt and bracket arrangement according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is an exploded side view of the bracket arrangement includingthe skirt of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 44 is an assembled side view of the skirt and bracket arrangementof FIG. 42 .

FIG. 45 is a partially exploded perspective view of the skirt andbracket arrangement of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the skirt and bracket arrangement ofFIG. 42 .

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a mounting bracket according to someaspects of the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a cross sectional view of the mounting bracket taken alongline D-D of FIG. 47 .

FIG. 49 is an exploded view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 47 .

FIG. 50 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 47installed on two solar panels and with two grounding screws and twosections of skirt exploded away from the mounting bracket.

FIG. 51 is a side view of the mounting bracket connected to the solarpanels and the skirt of FIG. 50 .

FIG. 52 is a partially exploded view of a mounting bracket coupled to aflashing according to some embodiments.

FIG. 53 is a cross sectional view of the mounting bracket taken alongline E-E of FIG. 52 .

FIG. 54 is a perspective view of a tool used with the mounting bracketof FIG. 52 .

FIG. 55 is a cross sectional view of the mounting bracket taken alongline F-F of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 52 coupledto two solar panels on a first support surface.

FIG. 57 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 52 coupledto two solar panels on a second support surface.

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 52 coupledto four solar panels.

FIG. 59 is a side view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 58 including aflashing.

FIG. 60 illustrates an electrical grounding circuit according to someembodiments of the invention.

FIG. 61 illustrates an electrical grounding circuit according to someembodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any independent embodiments of the invention are explained indetail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and the arrangement ofcomponents set forth in the following description or illustrated in thefollowing drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and ofbeing practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is tobe understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is forthe purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Theuse of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereofherein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalentsthereof as well as additional items.

Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,”“supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly andencompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, andcouplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted tophysical or mechanical connections or couplings.

Also, it is to be understood that phraseology and terminology usedherein with reference to device or element orientation (such as, forexample, terms like “central,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” etc.)are only used to simplify description of embodiments of the presentinvention and do not alone indicate or imply that the device or elementreferred to must have a particular orientation. In addition, terms suchas “first” and “second” are used herein for purposes of description andare not intended to indicate or imply relative importance orsignificance.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a roof mount system 10 including a roof 12, aplurality of solar panels 14, a plurality of mounting brackets 16,flashing 18 and a skirt 21. The solar panels 14 are mounted to the roof12 via the plurality of mounting brackets 16. In the illustratedembodiment, the solar panels 14 are orientated in a grid array. Thesolar panels 14 are coupled to the mounting brackets 16 located in acorresponding grid array on the roof 12. In particular, the mountingbrackets 16 are coupled to the solar panels 14 on the periphery of themajor (e.g., horizontal) length of the solar panels 14. Furthermore, themounting brackets 16 are secured to the roof 12 by a roof fastener 20(shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 ). In other embodiments, the roof mount system10 may secure other components to the roof 12 in addition to or in lieuof the solar panels 14.

The illustrated mounting brackets 16 are constructed to connect to asingle solar panel 14 to the roof 12 or to connect to a plurality ofsolar panels 14 to the roof 12. The illustrated mounting brackets 16 canalso couple a plurality of solar panels 14 together. In addition, themounting brackets 16 can support the skirt 21 on the roof 12. Theillustrated skirt 21 may extend along the entire length of the solarpanels 14 at the bottom of the array of solar panels 14. For example,the skirt 21 is located near a gutter system (not shown) or outerperimeter of the roof 12. The skirt 21 provides a barrier between theambient environment surrounding the solar panels 14 and the area locatedbetween the roof 12 and the solar panels 14. For example, the skirt 21is utilized to inhibit a substantial pressure differential between theambient environment and an area under the solar panels 14.

The flashing 18 is positioned between the mounting brackets 16 and theroof 12 to inhibit leakage of fluids (e.g., rain water, snow, etc.)through the roof 12 while providing a structure to which the mountingbrackets 16 are securely mounted. The flashing 18 is described in detailin U.S. Pat. No. 8,209,914, issued Jul. 3, 2012, the contents of whichare herein incorporated by reference.

With reference to FIGS. 3-10 , the mounting brackets 16 include astandoff 30, a first clamp portion 44, a second clamp portion 46 and anadjustment assembly 48. The standoff 30 is coupled to the flashing 18whereas the first clamp portion 44, the second clamp portion 46 and theadjustment assembly 48 are coupled to the standoff 30.

The illustrated standoff 30 generally defines a 90 degree crosssectional construction including a first portion 52 that issubstantially parallel with the roof 12, and a second portion 56 that issubstantially perpendicular with the roof 12. The illustrated firstportion 52 includes a mounting aperture 60 located closer to an edge ofthe standoff 30 rather than being centered on the standoff 30. Themounting aperture 60 is sized to receive the roof fastener 20 and aportion of the flashing 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the mountingaperture 60 is frustoconically shaped. In other words, a first openingof the mounting aperture 60 that is adjacent the flashing 18 includes agreater diameter than a second opening of the mounting aperture 60positioned away from the flashing 18 (FIGS. 3 and 8 ). The secondportion 56 includes a channel 64 and a void 68 that both extend theentire length of the standoff 30. The channel 64 generally defines a “T”shaped opening. Ridges 66 extend along both sides of the channel 64 andface downwardly towards the first portion 52. The void 68 is configuredto reduce the weight without compromising the structural integrity ofthe standoff 30. The illustrated standoff 30 is manufactured from anonferrous material (e.g., aluminum).

The first clamp portion 44 is positioned above the standoff 30. Thefirst clamp portion 44 includes a first support surface 70 a and asecond support surface 70 b separated by walls 72. The first and secondsupport surfaces 70 a, 70 b are operable to support a portion of a solarpanel 14. The first support surface 70 a includes a recess 74 thatdefines as a curvilinear depression on the first support surface 70 a.The second support surface 70 b includes a channel 78 that protrudesbelow the second support surface 70 b. In other words, the channel 78faces the standoff 30. Similar to the channel 64, the channel 78includes ridges 80. The illustrated channel 78 defines a “T” shapedopening that extends entirely through the length of the second supportsurface 70 b. The walls 72 are substantially perpendicular to the firstand second support surfaces 70 a, 70 b. Located between the walls 72 isan aperture 82 (FIG. 5 ). In addition, the first clamp portion 44 ismoveable relative to the standoff 30 along a first axis 86 (FIG. 6 ).The first axis 86 is generally perpendicular to the plane defined by theroof 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the first clamp portion 44 ismanufactured from a nonferrous material (e.g., aluminum).

The second clamp portion 46 is sized to be received between the walls 72and includes a first aperture 90 (FIG. 5 ), a second aperture 94 andclamping protrusions 98. Also, the second clamp portion 46 is moveablealong the first axis 86 relative to the first clamp portion 44. Thefirst aperture 90 has a diameter that is less than the diameter of thesecond aperture 94. The illustrated clamping protrusions 98 extendsubstantially parallel to and in the same direction as the first andsecond support surfaces 70 a, 70 b. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst and second support surfaces 70 a, 70 b extend beyond the clampingprotrusions 98. In some embodiments, the second clamp portion 46 ismanufactured from a nonferrous material (e.g., aluminum).

The adjustment assembly 48 includes a stud 102, a jam nut 104, anadjustment nut 108 and a securing nut 112. The stud 102 includesexternal threads and has a head 116 (FIG. 5 ) which is sized to bereceived within the channel 64. The jam nut 104 threadably engages thestud 102. Likewise, the adjustment nut 108 and the securing nut 112threadably engage the stud 102, but the adjustment nut 108 includes aprotrusion 120 and the securing nut 112 includes a protrusion 122. Theillustrated nuts 108, 112 are substantially constructed as hexagonalcylinders with the respective protrusions 120, 122 radially extendingtherefrom. The illustrated protrusions 120, 122 are offset to one end ofthe nuts 108, 112. In other words, the illustrated protrusions 120, 122are not centered along the length of the nuts 108, 112. The protrusions120, 122 are offset to different locations in the configurationillustrated in FIGS. 3-8 than in the configuration illustrated in FIGS.9-10 . The jam nut 104, the adjustment nut 108 and the securing nut 112are sized to receive a standard wrench or socket wrench. For example,the jam nut 104, the adjustment nut 108 and the securing nut 112 mayeach be a ½″ nut able to receive a ½″ wrench. Additionally, theadjustment assembly 48 is manufactured from a ferrous material (e.g.,steel, stainless steel, etc.).

The skirt 21 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 may be coupled to the first clampportion 44 via the channel 78. Specifically, a head portion of afastener (e.g., a bolt) is received within the channel 78 and engagesthe ridges 80 (similar to the head 116 engaging the ridges 66). Thefastener is attached to a portion of the skirt 21 by either a threadednut or the fastener engages a threaded aperture of the skirt. As theskirt 21 is coupled to the first clamp portion 44, the head of thefastener is forced into the ridges 80 to enable a locking mechanism toinhibit the fastener from moving along or rotating within the channel78.

With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10 , the standoff 30 is positioned on theflashing 18 and secured to the roof 12 by the roof fastener 20. Beforethe roof fastener 20 is fully secured, the standoff 30 is able to rotaterelative to the flashing 18. The stud 102 is secured to the standoff 30by sliding the head 116 to a desired location along the channel 64. Thejam nut 104 secures the stud 102 to the standoff 30. Consequently, thestud 102 is rotationally and laterally fixed relative to the standoff30. Because the head 116 is manufactured from a ferrous material (e.g.,stainless steel), the head 116 includes a material hardness greater thanthat of the nonferrous material (e.g., aluminum) of the standoff 30. Asthe jam nut 104 is tightened, the head 116 is forced into and deformsthe ridges 66 to provide an additional mechanism to inhibit rotationalor sliding movement of the stud 102 relative to the standoff 30.

The adjustment nut 108 is positioned on the stud 102 and extends throughthe aperture 82 to support the first clamp portion 44 on the stud 102.Consequently, the protrusion 120 of the adjustment nut 108 abuts thefirst clamp portion 44, and a hexagonal portion of the adjustment nut108 extends through the aperture 82 and is located between walls 72(FIG. 6 ). The second clamp portion 46 is also positioned on the stud102. The securing nut 112 is positioned on the stud 102 and extendsthrough the first aperture 90. In particular, the protrusion 122 of thesecuring nut 112 abuts a portion of the second clamp portion 46 adjacentthe first aperture 90 to support the second clamp portion 46 on the stud102. Also, a hexagonal portion of the securing nut 112 extends betweenthe first and second apertures 90, 94.

In operation of securing the solar panels 14 to the mounting brackets16, the first clamp portion 44 is adjusted to a desired height above theroof 12 by rotating the adjustment nut 108. By rotating the adjustmentnut 108, the first clamp portion 44 translates along the first axis 86.In addition, the securing nut 112 is positioned at the top end of thestud 102 (i.e., away from the standoff 30) to allow for the maximumclearance between the first and second support surfaces 70 a, 70 b andthe clamping protrusions 98. The solar panels 14 are then easilyreceived on either of the first and second support surfaces 70 a, 70 b.

Once the height of the first clamp portion 44 is properly adjusted and asolar panel 14 is seated on either of the first and second supportsurface 70 a, 70 b, the securing nut 112 is rotated about the stud 102such that the clamping protrusion 98 of the second clamp portion 46engages a top surface of the solar panel 14. In particular, theprotrusions 122 of the securing nut 112 contact a portion of the secondclamp portion 46 adjacent the first aperture 90 to translate the secondclamp portion 46 downwardly along the first axis 86. The securing nut112 rotates about the stud 102 to move the second clamp portion 46 alongthe stud 102 in the direction of the first axis 86. In addition, therecess 74 provides enough clearance between the first clamp portion 44and the second clamp portion 46 to insert, pivot and secure a solarpanel 14 therebetween. For example, if a first solar panel 14 is seatedon the second support surface 70 b and the second clamp portion 46 istightened against the first solar panel 14, a second solar panel 14 isable to be rotated via the recess 74 onto the first support surface 70a.

FIGS. 11-18 illustrate a roof mount system 210 according to anotherembodiment. The roof mount system 210 is similar to the roof mountsystem 10; therefore, like components have been given like referencenumbers incremented by 200 and only the differences between the roofmount systems will be discussed in detail. In addition, components orfeatures described with respect to only one or some of the embodimentsdescribed herein are equally applicable to any other embodimentsdescribed herein.

The illustrated roof mount system 210 includes a mounting bracket 216that couples at least one solar panel 214 to a roof 212, and flashing218 (shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 ) is coupled between the mounting bracket216 and the roof 212. The illustrated mounting bracket 216 includes astandoff 230, a first clamp portion 244, a second clamp portion 246, andan adjustment assembly 248. The illustrated standoff 230 includes afirst portion 252 and a second portion 256. The first portion 252includes a mounting aperture 260 and the second portion 256 includes achannel 264 and a void 268. Ridges 266 extend along both sides of thechannel 264 and face downwardly towards the first portion 252.

The first clamp portion 244 includes a support surface 270 and a hub232. The illustrated support surface 270 is defined as a circularsurface surrounding the hub 232. The hub 232 includes an internallythreaded hollow core with an upper projection 234 extending above thesupport surface 270 and a lower projection 238 extending below thesupport surface 270. A hexagonal protrusion 242 extends from the upperprojection 234 away from the support surface 270. The hexagonalprotrusion 242 is sized to fit a standard sized wrench or socket wrench.In other embodiments, one or both of the projections 234,238 may beomitted, and the hexagonal protrusion 242 may directly abut the supportsurface 270. The first clamp portion 244 is moveable along a first axis286 relative to the standoff 230.

The second clamp portion 246 includes an aperture 250 and clampingprotrusions 298. Also, the second clamp portion 246 is moveable alongthe first axis 286 relative to the first clamp portion 244. Theillustrated aperture 250 is constructed as a countersunk aperture. Theillustrated clamping protrusions 298 extend away from the aperture 250.

The adjustment assembly 248 includes a stud 302, a jam nut 304 and asecuring fastener 254. The stud 302 includes a head 316 which is sizedto be received within the channel 264. Likewise, the securing fastener254 also includes a head 258 that is sized to receive a standard sizedwrench or socket wrench. The stud 302 and the securing fastener 254 aresized to threadably engage the hub 232.

With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18 , the standoff 230 is positioned onthe flashing 218 and secured to the roof 212 by a roof fastener 220. Thestud 302 is secured to the standoff 230 by sliding the head 316 alongthe channel 264 to a desired location. The jam nut 304 secures the stud302 to the standoff 230. As the jam nut 304 is tightened, the head 316deforms the ridges 266 to provide an additional mechanism to inhibitrotational and lateral movement of the stud 302 relative to the standoff230.

As best shown in FIGS. 13 and 16 , the first clamp portion 244 isthreaded onto the stud 302. In particular, the lower projection 238receives a portion of the stud 302. The second clamp portion 246 issecured to the first clamp portion 244 when the securing fastener 254 isinserted into the aperture 250 and threadably engaged to the upperprojection 234.

In operation of securing the solar panels 214 to the mounting brackets216, the first clamp portion 244 is adjusted to a desired height abovethe roof 212 by rotating the first clamp portion 244 via the hexagonalprotrusion 242. By rotating the hexagonal protrusion 242 with a wrenchor socket wrench, the first clamp portion 244 translates along the firstaxis 286. Because the hexagonal protrusion 242 receives a standard sizedwrench socket, additional or specialty tools are not required to adjustthe height of the first clamp portion 244. The solar panels 214 are thenseated on the support surface 270 such that an edge of the solar panel214 is adjacent an outer circumference of the upper projection 234.

Once the height of the first clamp portion 244 is properly adjusted andthe solar panel 214 is seated on the support surface 270, the secondclamp portion 246 is installed to clamp onto the solar panel 214.Particularly, the securing fastener 254 is tightened to the hub 232 suchthat the clamping protrusions 298 clamp the solar panel 214 against thesupport surface 270.

FIGS. 19-22 illustrate a roof mount system according to anotherembodiment. The roof mount system is similar to the roof mount system1O; therefore, like components have been given like reference numbersincremented by 400 and the only differences between the roof mountsystems will be discussed in detail. In addition, components or featuresdescribed with respect to only one or some of the embodiments describedherein are equally applicable to any other embodiments described herein.

The illustrated roof mount system includes a mounting bracket 416, rails401 and flashing 218. The illustrated rails 401 (only one is illustratedin FIG. 21 ) are a different method of securing solar panels, such asthe solar panels 14, to the mounting bracket 416. The illustratedmounting bracket 416 includes a standoff 430, a first clamp portion 444,a second clamp portion 446, and an adjustment assembly 448. Theillustrated standoff 430 includes a first portion 452 and a secondportion 456. The first portion 452 includes a mounting aperture 460 andthe second portion 456 includes a channel 464 and a void 468. Ridges 466extend along both sides of the channel 464 and face downwardly towardsthe first portion 452.

The first clamp portion 444 includes a base 403 that includes a channelsized to receive a protrusion of the rail 401. The rails 401 areconfigured to support the solar panels 14. The base 403 includesapertures 482 with one of the apertures being a threaded aperture. Theillustrated first clamp portion 444 is moveable along a first axis 486relative to the standoff 430.

The second clamp portion 446 includes an aperture 450 and clampingprotrusions 498. Also, the second clamp portion 446 is moveable alongthe first axis 486 relative to the first clamp portion 444. Theillustrated clamping protrusions 498 extend away from the aperture 450.

The adjustment assembly 448 includes a stud 502, a jam nut 504, anadjustment nut 508, a locking nut 513 and a securing fastener 454. Thestud 502 includes a head 516 which is sized to be received within thechannel 464. Likewise, the securing fastener 454 also includes a head458 that is sized to receive a standard sized wrench or socket wrench.The adjustment nut 508 includes a protrusion 520 that is offset to oneend of the adjustment nut 508. The securing fastener 454 engages thethreaded aperture 482 whereas the adjustment nut 508 is received throughthe other aperture 482. The locking nut 513 includes a threaded apertureand is slidably received within the first clamp portion 444 so that thethreaded aperture aligns with the aperture 482. The engagement betweenthe first clamp portion 444 and the locking nut 513 inhibits the lockingnut 513 from rotating relative to the first clamp portion 444.

With reference to FIG. 22 , the standoff 430 is positioned on theflashing 418 and secured to the roof 12 by a roof fastener 420. The stud502 is secured to the standoff 430 by sliding the head 516 along thechannel 464 to a desired location. The jam nut 504 secures the stud 502to the standoff 430. As the jam nut 504 is tightened, the head 516deforms the ridges 466 to provide an additional mechanism to inhibitrotational and lateral movement of the stud 502 relative to the standoff430.

With continued reference to FIG. 22 , the first clamp portion 444, thelocking nut 513 and the adjustment nut 508 are received on the stud 502.In particular, the protrusion 520 of the adjustment nut 508 is locatedbetween the locking nut 513 and the first clamp portion 444. As aresult, the first clamp portion 444, the locking nut 513 and theadjustment nut 508 move along the first axis 486 together. In addition,the second clamp portion 446 and the securing fastener 454 are coupledto the threaded aperture 482.

In operation of securing the rail 401 directly to the mounting brackets416 (e.g., a rail based system), the rails 401 are connected to the base403 such that each rail 401 engages one channel of the base 403. Thefirst clamp portion 444 is adjusted to a desired height above the roof12 by rotating the adjustment nut 508. By rotating the adjustment nut508 (e.g., with a wrench or socket wrench), the first clamp portion 444translates along the first axis 286. The rails 401 and the solar panels14 are then seated on the first clamp portion 444. Once the height ofthe first clamp portion 444 is properly adjusted and the solar panel 14is seated on the rail 401, the second clamp portion 446 is installed toclamp onto the solar panel 14. Particularly, the securing fastener 454is tightened such that the clamping protrusions 498 clamp the solarpanel 14 against the rail 401.

FIGS. 23-27 illustrate a mounting bracket 616 according to anotherembodiment. The mounting bracket 616 is similar to the mounting bracket16; therefore, like components have been given like reference numbersincremented by 600 and only the differences between the mountingbrackets will be discussed in detail. In addition, the mounting bracket616 includes similar components to the mounting brackets; therefore,like components have been given like reference numbers. Furthermore,components or features described with respect to only one or some of theembodiments described herein are equally applicable to any otherembodiments described herein.

The illustrated mounting bracket 616 includes a slide 617, a standoff630, a first clamp portion 644, a second clamp portion 646, and anadjustment assembly 648. The illustrated slide 617 abuts a flashing 618and both are secured to the roof 12 by a roof fastener 620. Theillustrated standoff 630 is coupled to the slide 617 and moves along asecond axis 631 (FIG. 24 ) relative to the slide 617. The second axis631 extends substantially parallel to the roof 12. The slide 617includes a mounting aperture sized to receive the roof fastener 620 andupper and lower protrusions. The standoff 630 includes upper grooves andlower grooves that are sized to receive the respective upper and lowerprotrusions of the slide 617 (see FIGS. 25-26 ). The standoff 630 isselectively fixed relative to the slide 617 by a locking bolt 607. Theillustrated locking bolt 607 may also function as a grounding bolt toelectrically connect the slide 617 to the standoff 630 to enableelectrical current to flow therebetween.

The illustrated first clamp portion 644 includes a first support surface670 a and a second support surface 670 b separated by walls 672. Thefirst support surface 670 a includes a recess 674 that defines as acurvilinear depression on the first support surface 670 a. The secondsupport surface 670 b includes a channel 678 having ridges 680 thatprotrude into the channel below the second support surface 670 b.Located between the walls 672 are apertures 682 (FIG. 26 ) with oneaperture being a threaded aperture. In addition, the first clamp portion644 is moveable relative to the standoff 630 along a first axis 686(FIG. 24 ). The first axis 686 is generally perpendicular to the planedefined by the roof 12.

The second clamp portion 646 includes a plurality of first apertures690, a plurality of second apertures 694 and clamping protrusions 698.The illustrated first apertures 690 are constructed with differentdiameters, and the first apertures 690 substantially align with arespective second aperture 694 (FIG. 26 ). Also, the second clampportion 646 is moveable along the first axis 686 relative to the firstclamp portion 644.

With reference to FIG. 27 , the illustrated adjustment assembly 648includes a stud 702, an adjustment nut 708 having a protrusion 720, asecuring fastener 754, and a locking nut 713. The stud 702 is threadablycoupled to and extends from the standoff 630. The first clamp portion644 and the second clamp portion 646 are received on the stud 702. Theadjustment nut 708 is received in one of the first apertures 690, forexample, the first aperture 690 including the larger diameter. Thelocking nut 713 is slidably coupled to the second clamp portion 646below the adjustment nut 708. In other words, the locking nut 713engages side walls of the second clamp portion 646 and is slid in placeto align with the adjustment nut 708 with the protrusion 720 of theadjustment nut 708 located between the locking nut 713 and the aperture690. The illustrated locking nut 713 holds the adjustment nut 708 inplace within the first aperture 690. The adjustment nut 708 and thelocking nut 713 are both received on the stud 702. The securing fastener754 is received through the other first aperture 690 and threadablyengages the first clamp portion 644.

In operation of securing solar panels 14 to the roof 12 with themounting bracket 616, the securing fastener 754 clamps the first and thesecond clamp portions 644, 646 onto the solar panels 14. The securingfastener 754 is tightened by a socket wrench that is received throughthe corresponding second aperture 694. The first and the second clampportions 644, 646, and ultimately the solar panels 14, are adjusted to adesired height above the roof 12. In particular, the socket wrench thatwas utilized to tighten the securing fastener 754 can now be used toengage the adjustment nut 708. By rotating the adjustment nut 708, theadjustment nut 708 moves relative to the stud 702 along the first axis686. Because the locking nut 713 wedges the adjustment nut 708 againstthe second clamp portion 646, the second clamp portion 646 moves withthe adjustment nut 708. In addition, because the securing fastener 754couples the first and the second clamp portions 644, 646 together, thefirst clamp portion 644 also moves with the adjustment nut 708 relativeto the stud 702. If desired, the height of the first clamp portion 644can be adjusted before clamping the solar panel 14 between the first andsecond clamp portions 644,646.

FIGS. 28-39 illustrate a mounting bracket 816 according to anotherembodiment. The mounting bracket 816 is similar to the mounting brackets16 and 616; therefore, like components have been given like referencenumbers and only the differences between the mounting brackets will bediscussed in detail. Furthermore, components or features described withrespect to only one or some of the embodiments described herein areequally applicable to any other embodiments described herein.

The illustrated mounting bracket 816 includes a slide 817, a standoff830, a first clamp portion 844, a second clamp portion 846, and anadjustment assembly 848. The illustrated slide 817 abuts a flashing 818and both are secured to the roof 12 by a roof fastener 820. Theillustrated standoff 830 is coupled to the slide 817 and moves along asecond axis 831 (FIG. 30 ) relative to the slide 817. The standoff 830is selectively fixed relative to the slide 817 by a locking bolt 807.The illustrated locking bolt 807 may also function as a grounding boltto directly connect the slide 817 to the standoff 830 to enableelectrical current to flow therebetween.

The illustrated first clamp portion 844 includes a first support surface870 a and a second support surface 870 b separated by walls 872. Thefirst support surface 870 a is constructed as a hook that defines achannel 809. Stated another way, the first support surface 870 a isdiscontinuous due to a gap created by the channel 809. The illustratedgap functions similar to the recesses 74, 674 to provide sufficientclearance between the first clamp portion 844 and the second clampportion 846 to allow a solar panel 814 to rotate into position. Aportion of the first support surface 870 a is also flexible to bend ordeform generally along a first axis 886. The illustrated channel 809 isconfigured and sized to receive one or more wires or cords. The secondsupport surface 870 b includes a channel 878 that extends below thesecond support surface 670 b. In contrast to the channels 78, 678, thechannel 878 openings away from the standoff 830. Located between thewalls 872 are apertures 882. In other embodiments, one of the apertures882 may be a threaded aperture. In addition, the first clamp portion 844is moveable relative to the standoff 830 along the first axis 886 (FIG.30 ).

In the illustrated embodiment, the second clamp portion 846 includes afirst aperture 890, a second aperture 894, a third aperture 811 and pins815. The illustrated pins 815 extend towards the first clamp portion844. Each pin 815 is located adjacent a respective clamping protrusion898.

With reference to FIG. 32 , the illustrated adjustment assembly 848includes a stud 902, an adjustment nut 908 having a protrusion 920, asecuring fastener 954, a biasing member 903 and a locking nut 913. Thestud 902 is threadably coupled to and extends from the standoff 830. Thefirst clamp portion 844 and the second clamp portion 846 are received onthe stud 902. The adjustment nut 908 is received in one of the firstapertures 890, for example, the first aperture 890 including the largerdiameter. The locking nut 913 is slidably coupled to the first clampportion 844 below the adjustment nut 908. The locking nut 913 includestwo apertures that respectively align with the apertures 882 of thefirst clamp portion 844. The illustrated locking nut 913 holds theadjustment nut 908 in place within the first aperture 890. Theadjustment nut 908 and the locking nut 913 are both received on the stud902. The securing fastener 954 is received through the other firstaperture 890 and threadably engages the first clamp portion 844. Thebiasing member 903 is concentric with the securing fastener 954 and islocated between the first and the second clamp portions 844, 846 to biasthe second clamp portion 846 away from the first clamp portion 844.

Operation of securing the solar panels 814 to the mounting bracket 816is a similar process to the mounting bracket 616, as described above.However, the support surface 870 a acts as a spring to bias the solarpanel 814 against the second clamp portion 846. Once the second clampportion 846 is clamped onto the solar panel 814, the pins 815 engage atop surface of the solar panel 814 to provide an electrical bondtherebetween.

With reference to FIGS. 35 and 36 , a skirt 821 may be coupled to themounting bracket 816 by a bonding screw 919. The bonding screw 919 isthreaded into the third aperture 811 of the second clamp portion 846. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the skirt 821 is orientated at an angle 8relative to the flashing 816 (e.g., the surface of the roof 12). Theillustrated angle 8 is about 60 degrees, but in other embodiments theangle 8 can range from about 20 degrees to about 80 degrees. Theillustrated skirt 821 includes a snow fence protrusion 923, a topprotrusion 925 and a bottom protrusion 927. The illustrated snow fenceprotrusion 923 extends above the second clamp portion 846 at a distanceX. The illustrated distance X is about one inch, but in otherembodiments, the distance X may be greater than an inch. The bottomprotrusion 927 slides along the channel 878 of the first clamp portion844. The bottom protrusion 927 can be vertically moved into and out ofthe channel 878 upon height adjustment of the second clamp portion 846with respect to the first clamp portion 844. The illustrated topprotrusion 925 engages a lip on the top of the second clamp portion 846.The bonding screw 919 abuts the top protrusion 925 and upon tighteningof the bonding screw 919 presses the top protrusion 925 against the topsurface of the second clamp portion 846. In addition, the skirt 821includes a channel 880 having ridges, which function similar to thechannel 78 and the ridges 88 of the mounting bracket 16, to furthersecure the skirt 821 to the mounting bracket 816 by a bolt (not shown).

In addition, the pins 815 are sized to engage the skirt 821 tomechanically and electrically connect the mounting bracket 816 to theskirt 821. Upon rotation of the bonding screw 919, the skirt 821 ispressed against the pins 815 and deformed to create a mechanical andelectrical bond between the skirt 821 and the mounting bracket 816. Insome embodiments, the bonding screws 919 and the pins 815 cut into theskirt 821 to form an electrical bond. In embodiments that include twosolar panels 814, the bonding screws 919 cut into one or more of thesolar panel frames 814 to form an electrical bond.

As shown in FIGS. 37-39 , the first and second clamp portions 844, 846can include a plurality of first cushions 929 that contact the solarpanel 814. As shown in FIG. 39 , a second cushion 933 is positionedbetween the solar panel 814 and the first and second clamp portions 844,846. In some embodiments, the cushions 929, 933 inhibit scratching ofthe solar panels 814 by the first and second clamp portions 844, 846. Insome embodiments, the cushions 929, 933 can inhibit the solar panels 814from rattling when installed in a windy climate. The cushions 929, 933can be included on one or more of the clamps described and illustratedherein.

FIGS. 40 and 41 illustrate a mounting bracket 1016 according to anotherembodiment. The mounting bracket 1016 is similar to the mountingbrackets 16, 616 and 816; therefore, like components have been givenlike reference numbers and only the differences between the mountingbrackets will be discussed in detail. Furthermore, components orfeatures described with respect to only one or some of the embodimentsdescribed herein are equally applicable to any other embodimentsdescribed herein.

The illustrated mounting bracket 1016 includes a slide 1017, a standoff1030, a first clamp portion 1044, a second clamp portion 1046, and anadjustment assembly 1048. The illustrated slide 1017 abuts a flashing1018 and both are secured to the roof 12 by a roof fastener 1020. Theillustrated standoff 1030 is coupled to the slide 1017 and movesparallel to a second axis 1031 relative to the slide 1017. The standoff1030 is selectively fixed relative to the slide 1017 by a locking bolt(similar to the locking bolt 807).

The illustrated first clamp portion 1044 includes a first supportsurface 1070 a and a second support surface 1070 b separated by walls1072. The first support surface 1070 a includes a recess 1074 thatdefines as a curvilinear depression on the first support surface 1070 a.The second support surface 1070 b includes a channel 1078 having ridges1080 that protrudes below the second support surface 1070 b. Locatedbetween the walls 1072 are apertures 1082 (only one is illustrated inFIGS. 40 and 41 ) with one aperture being a threaded aperture (e.g., theaperture not shown in FIGS. 40 and 41 ). In addition, the first clampportion 1044 is moveable relative to the standoff 1030 along a firstaxis 1086.

The second clamp portion 1046 includes a first aperture, a secondaperture 1094 and clamping protrusions 1098. The illustrated firstaperture is constructed with a smaller diameter than the second aperture1094, and the first aperture substantially aligns with the secondaperture 1094. Also, the second clamp portion 1046 is moveable along thefirst axis 1086 relative to the first clamp portion 1044.

With reference to FIG. 40 , the illustrated adjustment assembly 1048includes a stud 1102, an adjustment nut 1108 a having snap rings 1135,and a securing fastener 1154. The adjustment nut 1108 a threadablyengages the stud 1102 and is received through one of the apertures 1082.As such, the snap rings 1135 are coupled to grooves defined on theadjustment nut 1108 a such that one snap ring 1135 is located above thefirst clamp portion 1044, and the other snap ring 1135 is located belowthe first clamp portion 1044. In other embodiments, the adjustmentassembly 1048 may include a biasing member (e.g., a spring) to bias thesecond clamp portion 1046 away from the first clamp portion 1044.

FIG. 41 illustrated an alternative embodiment of an adjustment nut thatcan be utilized in place of the adjustment nut 1108 a shown in FIG. 40 .An adjustment nut 1108 b, as illustrated in FIG. 41 , threadably engagesthe stud 1102 and is received through one of the apertures 1082. Collars1137 are fixed to the adjustment nut 1108 b such that one collar 1137 islocated above the first clamp portion 1044 and one collar 1137 islocated below the first clamp portion 1044. In other embodiments, theadjustment assembly 1048 may include a biasing member (e.g., a spring)to bias the second clamp portion 1046 away from the first clamp portion1044.

Operation of securing the solar panels 14 to the mounting bracket 1016is similar to the mounting bracket 816. In particular, the adjustmentnuts 1108 a, 1108 b are rotatable about the stud 1102 but are inhibitedfrom axial movement with respect to the first clamp portion 1044 via thesnap rings 1135 and the collars 1137 to adjust the first clamp portion1044 to a desired height above the roof 12. The securing fastener 1154threadably engages the first clamp portion 1044 to clamp the solarpanels 14 between the clamp portions 1044, 1046.

FIGS. 42-46 illustrate a mounting bracket 1216 according to anotherembodiment. Components or features described with respect to only one orsome of the embodiments described herein are equally applicable to anyother embodiments described herein.

The illustrated mounting bracket 1216 includes a skirt bracket 1273coupled to a rail 1201. The illustrated rail 1201 is similar to the rail401. In other embodiments, the mounting bracket 1216 may couple theskirt bracket 1273 to other embodiments of the mounting bracket16,216,416, 616, 816. For example, the skirt bracket 1273 may directlyconnect to the first clamp portion 44,244,444, 644, 844.

The illustrated rail 1201 includes side fingers 1291 and top fingers1293. The side fingers 1291 define an opening to channels located on aside of the rail 1201, and the top fingers 1293 define an opening to achannel located on a top of the rail 1201. The rail 1201 is configuredto be utilized in a rail-based system to couple the solar panels 14 tothe roof 12.

The illustrated skirt bracket 1273 includes a first end 1275 and asecond end 1277 spaced from the first end 1275. The first end 1275includes a first, a second and a third flange 1279, 1281, 1283. Theillustrated first flange 1279 includes a threaded aperture (FIG. 45 ). Ahook portion 1285 is located near the second end 1277. In addition, theskirt bracket 1273 includes a top plate 1287 and a securing fastener1254.

The skirt 1221 is similar to the skirt 21 includes a top edge, a bottomedge, a first side edge, a second side edge and a plurality ofperforations 1289. In some embodiments, the perforations 1289 are spacedacross substantially the entire skirt 1221, whereas in other embodimentsthe perforations 1289 are positioned only on portions of the skirt 1221.In the illustrated embodiment, the perforations 1289 are ¼ inch holes.In some embodiments, the skirt 1221 is constructed from aluminum, suchas extruded aluminum. In other embodiments, the skirt 1221 may be asolid member.

To assemble the skirt bracket 1273 onto the rail 1201, the skirt bracket1273 is pivotally coupled to the rail 1201. In particular, the thirdflange 1283 engages one side finger 1291. Then, the second flange 1281is able to rotate towards one of the top fingers 1293 to engage with thetop finger 1293. As such, the skirt bracket 1273 snaps onto the rail1201 by engagement between the top finger 1293 and the second flange1281. In the illustrated embodiment, the skirt brackets 1273 arepositioned periodically along a base of the roof 12.

To assembly the skirt 1221 to the skirt bracket 1273, the skirt 1221 isreceived into the hook portions 1285 of adjacent skirt brackets 1273extending along the roof 12. As a result, the skirt 1221 is seated flushwith the skirt bracket 1273. The top plate 1287 is fixedly coupled tothe first flange 1279 by the securing fastener 1254 such that the skirt1221 is secured between the top plate 1287 and the skirt bracket 1273.In addition, the first flange 1279 is positioned above the rail 1201,which functions as a snow fence protrusion, to inhibit snow and ice fromsliding off the solar panels 14 and the roof 12.

The skirt 1221 is oriented at a non-parallel, non-perpendicular anglewith respect to the rail 1201 and ultimately the roof 12. The shape ofthe skirt bracket 1273 and the angle of the solar panel 14 and the roof12 that the skirt bracket 1273 is attached to affect the angle betweenthe skirt 1221 and the roof 12. The angle is selected to inhibit aviewer on the ground surface from viewing the area between the solarpanels 14 and the roof 12 through the perforations 1289 in the skirt1221. However, air is permitted to flow through the area between thesolar panels 14 and the roof 12 because of the perforations 1289. Thisair flow allows cooling of the solar panels 14 but inhibits smallanimals and birds from entering the area between the solar panel 14 andthe roof 12. The skirt 1221 also inhibits debris from gathering betweenthe solar panels 14 and the roof 12.

FIGS. 47-51 illustrate a mounting bracket 1416 according to anotherembodiment. The mounting bracket 1416 is similar to the mountingbrackets 16 and 816; therefore, like components have been given likereference numbers and only the differences between the mounting bracketswill be discussed in detail. Furthermore, components or featuresdescribed with respect to only one or some of the embodiments describedherein are equally applicable to any other embodiments described herein.

The illustrated mounting bracket 1416 includes a first clamp portion1444, a second clamp portion 1446 and an adjustment assembly 1448. Theillustrated first clamp portion 1444 includes a first support surface1470 a defining a channel 1409 and a second support surface 1470 bhaving a channel 1478. Walls 1472 separate the support surfaces 1470 a,1470 b with first apertures 1482 located between the walls 1472. Inother embodiments, the first apertures 1482 may be threaded apertures.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second clamp portion 1446 includesfirst apertures 1490, second apertures 1494, third apertures 1411, pins1415 and clamping protrusions 1498. The pins 1415 are located on one ofthe clamping protrusions 1498. The second clamp portion 1446 is moveablerelative to the first clamp portion 1444 along a first axis 1486.

The illustrated adjustment assembly 1448 includes securing fasteners1554, a locking nut 1513 and biasing members 1503. The locking nut 1513engages with the first clamp portion 1444 and includes threadedapertures that align with respective first apertures 1482. The securingfasteners 1554 are concentric with the biasing members 1503 to bias thesecond clamp portion 1446 away from the first clamp portion 1444. Thesecuring fasteners 1554 threadably engage the locking nut 1513.

In operation, the mounting bracket 1416 can couple two solar panels 1414together, four solar panels 1414 together, or two solar panels 1414 incombination with two skirts 1421 together (FIGS. 50 and 51 ). Themounting bracket 1416 provides support to adjacent solar panels 1414and/or adjacent skirts 1421 without coupling the mounting bracket 1416directly to the roof 12. When clamping the mounting bracket 1416 ontosolar panels 1414, the process is similar to the mounting bracket 816 asdescribed above.

The illustrated skirt 1421 includes a snow fence protrusion 1523, a topprotrusion 1525, a bottom protrusion 1527 and a channel 1478 havingridges 1480. As discussed above in reference to the skirt 821, thebottom protrusion 1527 slides along the channel 1478. The bottomprotrusion 1527 can be vertically moved into and out of the channel 1478upon height adjustment of the second clamp portion 1446 with respect tothe first clamp portion 1444. The top protrusion 1525 engages a lip onthe top of the second clamp portion 1446. Bonding screws 1519 abut thetop protrusion 1525 and upon tightening of the bonding screws 1519, thetop protrusion 1525 is pressed against the top surface of the secondclamp portion 1446 and the pins 1415.

FIGS. 52-59 illustrate a mounting bracket 1616 according to anotherembodiment. The mounting bracket 1616 is similar to the mounting bracket16; therefore, like components have been given like reference numbersincremented by 1600 and only the differences between the mountingbrackets will be discussed in detail. In addition, components orfeatures described with respect to only one or some of the embodimentsdescribed herein are equally applicable to any other embodimentsdescribed herein.

In some embodiments, the flashing 18 may be illustrated as flashing 1618(FIGS. 52 and 59 ). The illustrated flashing 1618 is substantiallydefined as a rectangular member of sheet metal and is coupled betweenthe roof 12 and the mounting bracket 1616. In particular, the flashing1618 is positioned (e.g., sandwiched) between adjacent roof shingles(not shown) of the roof 12. The illustrated flashing 1618 includes afirst portion 1624, a second portion 1628, an intermediate portion 1639and a coupling mechanism 1641. The first portion 1624 and the secondportion 1628 are separated by the intermediate portion 1639, and theillustrated first portion 1624 includes a larger surface area than thesecond portion 1628. The illustrated intermediate portion 1639 is acurvilinear protrusion that extends towards the mounting bracket 1616(e.g., away from the roof 12). In other embodiments, the intermediateportion 1639 may be differently constructed to distinguish the firstportion 1624 from the second portion 1628. The illustrated couplingmechanism 1641 is coupled to a bottom surface of the second portion 1628and located between the roof 12 and the flashing 1618. In theillustrated embodiment, the coupling mechanism 1641 is doubled sidedtape to secure the flashing 1618 to the roof 12 without penetrating theroof (e.g., with a fastener); however, in other embodiments, thecoupling mechanism 1641 may be any suitable adhesive. In furtherembodiments, the coupling mechanism 1641 may be a clip that couples thesecond portion 1628 to a single roof shingle.

The illustrated mounting bracket 1616 includes a first clamp portion1644, second clamp portions 1646, an adjustment assembly 1648 and asupport structure 1643. The mounting bracket 1616 is coupled to the roof12 by the support structure 1643. The first clamp portion 1644 ismoveable relative to the flashing 1618 in an upward direction and adownward direction parallel to a first axis 1686 (FIG. 59 ). Theillustrated first clamp portion 1644 includes a first support surface1670 a and a second support surface 1670 b. In the illustratedembodiment, the first support surface 1670 a includes a concave recess1674.

The illustrated first clamp portion 1644 includes a tool aperture 1645,a central aperture 1626 and first and second threaded apertures 1682.The illustrated tool aperture 1645 is located between a threadedaperture 1682 and the central aperture 1626 whereas the central aperture1626 is located between the first and the second threaded apertures1682. In other embodiments, the first clamp portion 1644 may include twotool apertures 1645 located on respective sides of the central aperture1626.

The illustrated first clamp portion 1644 also includes walls 1672 thatextend substantially normal to the first and second support surfaces1670 a, 1670 b. The walls 1672 abut the second clamp portions 1646 sothat the second clamp portions 1646 are inhibited from rotating relativeto the first clamp portion 1644.

In addition, the second support surface 1670 b includes a channel 1678having ridges 1680. In some embodiments, the skirt 21 is coupled to themounting bracket 1616 by engagement with the channel 1678 and the ridges1680.

The second clamp portions 1646 are illustrated as two distinct membersthat respectively align with the first and the second threaded apertures1682. The second clamp portions 1646 are moveable relative to the firstclamp portion 1644 in the upward direction and the downward directionparallel to the first axis 1686. Each of the illustrated second clampportions 1646 include a first aperture and a second aperture 1694positioned above the first aperture. In addition, each of theillustrated second clamp portions 1646 include clamping protrusions1698. In other embodiments, the second clamp portions 1646 may beconstructed as one integral member with an aperture aligning with thecentral aperture 1626 and an aperture aligning with the tool aperture1645.

The adjustment assembly 1648 includes securing fasteners 1654. Thesecuring fasteners 1654 connect the second clamp portions 1646 to thefirst clamp portion 1644. The securing fasteners 1654 substantiallyalign with a respective one of the first and second threaded apertures1682.

The illustrated support structure 1643 supports the first clamp portion1644 at a desired height above the flashing 1618 and ultimately the roof12. The illustrated support structure 1643 includes a base 1649, a stud1651 and an adjustment nut 1609. The illustrated base 1649 is generallydefined as a cylindrical disk that is configured to abut the flashing1618 and includes a bottom portion 1653 and a plurality of grooves 1655.Particularly, the bottom portion 1653 is in direct contact with theflashing 1618 and is constructed from material that increases thecoefficient of friction between the base 1649 and the flashing 1618. Forexample, the bottom portion 1653 may be manufactured as an adhesive,sand paper type material, or the like to grip a surface of the flashing1618. The illustrated grooves 1655 are radially spaced on acircumference of the base 1649. In the illustrated embodiment, the base1649 includes six grooves equally spaced apart; however, in otherembodiments, the base 1649 may include more or less than six grooves.Additionally, the base 1649 is rotatable such that one of the grooves1655 is moveable into alignment with the tool aperture 1645.

The illustrated stud 1651 includes external threads and couples the base1649 to the first clamp portion 1644. The illustrated stud 1651 issubstantially centrally attached and rotatably fixed to the base 1649.The central aperture 1626 is sized to receive the stud 1651.

The illustrated adjustment nut 1609 extends through the central aperture1626 and is rotatable relative to the first clamp portion 1644. However,the adjustment nut 1609 is inhibited from movement relative to the firstclamp portion 1644 along the first axis 1686 by projections 1620. Theillustrated projections 1620 are located on opposite surfaces (i.e., topand bottom) of the first clamp portion 1644 adjacent the centralaperture 1626. The projections 1620 radially extend from the adjustmentnut 1609. In addition, the adjustment nut 1609 is sized to receive astandard sized wrench or socket wrench.

The illustrated mounting bracket 1616 also includes a tool 1659. Thetool aperture 1645 is sized to receive the tool 1659. In addition, thegrooves 1655 are sized to receive a portion of the tool 1659. In theillustrated embodiment, the tool 1659 is a round rod with a bent end. Insome embodiments, the tool 1659 is an Allen wrench, a threaded rod or afastener.

In operation, the support surfaces 1670 a, 1670 b support the comers ofthe solar panels 14 at a desired height above the flashing 1618 andultimately the roof 12. The first clamp portion 1644 is moveablerelative to the flashing 1618 and the roof 12 along the first axis 1686upon rotation of the adjustment nut 1609. In particular, the tool 1659is received within the tool aperture 1645 so a portion of the tool 1659engages one of the grooves 1655. Consequently, the tool 1659 inhibitsrelative rotation between the base 1649 and the first clamp portion1644. As the adjustment nut 1609 is rotated (by a standard socket wrenchor the like), the projections 1620 move the first clamp portion 1644along the first axis 166. To install the solar panels 14 onto themounting bracket 1616, one of the solar panels 14 is positioned on thesecond support surface 1670 b in abutting relationship with the wall1672. Each of the second clamp portions 1646 engages a portion of therespective solar panel 14 via the clamping protrusions 1698. Thesecuring fasteners 1654 are tightened to clamp the solar panels 14between the clamp portions 1644, 1646 to secure the solar panels 14 tothe mounting bracket 1616. Another solar panel 14 is positioned on thefirst support surface 1670 a in abutting relationship with the otherwall 1672 by utilizing the concave recess 1674. In particular, an edgeof the solar panel 1614 is positioned within the concave recess 1674such that the solar panel 14 is orientated at an acute angle relative tothe first support surface 1670 a. The solar panel 14 is then rotatedtowards the flashing 1618 to abut the wall 1672 and the first supportsurface 1670 a. The flashing 1618 is retained on the roof 12 because theintermediate portion 1639 is positioned upslope of the base 1649. Thebottom portion 1653 of the base 1649 and the coupling mechanism 1641also retain the flashing 1618 on the roof 12. Therefore, the flashing1618 is retained on the roof 12 without using a fastener that penetratesthe flashing 1618 and roof 12.

With reference to FIGS. 60 and 61 , a roof mount system 1810 can beelectrically grounded (e.g., earth grounding) via a grounding lug 1861and grounding wire 1863. The grounding lug 1861 is directly coupled toone of the solar panels 1814, and the grounding wire 1863 iselectrically coupled to the grounding lug 1861 and is coupled to theearth (e.g., ground). The illustrated solar panels 1814 are coupled tothe roof 12 by mounting brackets 1816 a. The illustrated mountingbrackets 1816 a may be anyone or a combination of the mounting brackets16,216,416, 616, 816, 1016, 1216. In addition, the illustrated solarpanels 1814 are coupled to each other by mounting brackets 1816 b. Theillustrated mounting brackets 1816 b may be anyone or a combination ofthe mounting brackets 1416, 1616. Also, the roof mount system 1810includes a skirt 1821, which is similar to the skirt 21, 821, 1221,1421. The mounting brackets 1816 a, 1816 b and the skirt 1821 provide agrounding path 1865 between adjacent solar panels 1814 to electricallycouple every solar panel 1814 to the grounding lug 1861.

With reference to FIG. 61 , two adjacent roof mount systems 1810 areelectrically coupled and grounded. Each roof mount system 1810 includesa grounding lug 1861 coupled to a single solar panel 1814. Theillustrated grounding path 1865 electrically couples every solar panel1814 together within a respective roof mount system 1810. Both groundinglugs 1861 are electrically coupled together by the grounding wire 1863,and the grounding wire 1863 also couples one grounding lug 1861 to theearth to completely ground both roof mount systems 1810.

In some embodiments, electrical bonding is achieved by cutting into oneor more of the solar panel frames with one or more pins or screwscoupled to the mounting bracket 16, 216, 416,616, 816, 1016, 1216, 1416,1616, 1816 a, 1816 b. In some embodiments, electrical bonding isachieved by cutting into one or more of the solar panel frames bypress-fitting the solar panel frame into the mounting bracket16,216,416, 616, 816, 1016, 1216, 1416, 1616, 1816 a, 1816 b and/ordeforming the solar panel frame with the mounting bracket 16,216,416,616, 816, 1016, 1216, 1416, 1616, 1816 a, 1816 b. In some embodiments astainless steel element pin, screw or protrusion is utilized to form anelectrical bond between the respective solar panel and mounting bracket16,216,416, 816, 1016, 1216, 1416, 1616, 1816 a, 1816 b. In someembodiments, the skirt 21, 821, 1221, 1421, 1821 is a snow guard thatinhibits snow from sliding down the solar panels. In some embodiments,the skirt 21, 821, 1221, 1421, 1821 is a snow guard and an electricalground for at least one of the solar panels.

What is claimed is:
 1. A roof mount, comprising: a base installable on aroof; an adjustment assembly operatively coupled to the base, theadjustment assembly comprising a threaded shaft extending along a firstaxis substantially perpendicular to the roof and a nut constrainedwithin the adjustment assembly; a clamp adjustably connected to the baseby the adjustment assembly, wherein a distance between the clamp and thebase is adjustable, the clamp comprising: a first clamp portion thatincludes a central portion, a first support surface and a second supportsurface, the first support surface comprising a recess and configured tosupport a portion of a first solar panel, the central portion disposedbetween the first support portion and the second support portion; asecond clamp portion a fastener connected to the clamp, the fasteneroperable to tighten the second clamp portion to the first clamp portion;and an access to enable adjustment of the clamp along the first axis,the access defined through the second clamp portion.
 2. The roof mountof claim 1, wherein the adjustment assembly is slidable on the base. 3.The roof mount of claim 1, wherein the recess is a curvilineardepression.
 4. The roof mount of claim 1, wherein the central portiondefines an aperture that is configured to receive the adjustmentassembly.
 5. The roof mount of claim 4, the nut comprises a protrusionthat is configured to contact and support the first clamp portion. 6.The roof mount of claim 1, wherein the clamp comprises a resilient walldefined in the central portion.
 7. The roof mount of claim 1, whereinthe second portion is configured to support a portion of a second solarpanel.
 8. A roof mount comprising: a base extending along a second axis;an adjustment assembly operatively coupled to the base, the adjustmentassembly comprising a threaded shaft extending along a first axissubstantially perpendicular to the second axis and a nut constrainedwithin the adjustment assembly; a clamp adjustably connected to the baseby the adjustment assembly, wherein a distance between the clamp and thebase is adjustable, the clamp comprising: a first channel sized toreceive and support a first solar panel, the first channel definedbetween a first top flange and a first bottom flange, the first bottomflange including a recess, the first channel having a first heightextending between the first top flange and the first bottom flange, thefirst height being adjustable; and a second channel sized to receive andsupport one of a second solar panel, the second channel defined betweena second top flange and a second bottom flange, the second channelhaving a second height extending between the second top flange and thesecond bottom flange, the second height being adjustable; a centralportion disposed between the first bottom flange and the second bottomflange, the central portion comprising a slot having an open side facingthe base; and a first fastener connected to the clamp, the firstfastener operable to adjust the first height and second height; and anaccess to enable adjusting of the clamp along the second axis, theaccess defined through the central portion.
 9. The roof mount of claim8, wherein the recess is a curvilinear depression.
 10. The roof mount ofclaim 8, wherein the slot of the central portion is configured toreceive the adjustment assembly.
 11. The roof mount of claim 10, whereinthe nut comprises a protrusion that is configured to contact the centralportion.
 12. The roof mount of claim 10, wherein the nut is retained inthe slot by an insert.
 13. The roof mount of claim 8, wherein the clampcomprises a wall disposed between the first channel and the secondchannel.